Cajun Pepper Shrimp with Creamed Corn Orzo

[nverland]

Cajun Pepper Shrimp with Creamed Corn Orzo
Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 15 minutes Total Time 30 minutes Servings 4-6

Ingredients

4 tablespoons salted butter
4 ears corn kernels, removed from the cob
3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
kosher salt and black pepper
1 cup dry orzo pasta
1/3 cup dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
1/2 cup canned coconut cream or heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan or Asiago cheese
1-pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on or off (about 24 shrimp)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 uncooked Andouille sausage links, meat removed from casings
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
juice from 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil roughly chopped

Instructions

1. To make the orzo. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter, the corn, 2 tablespoons thyme, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook 5 minutes or until the corn is golden. Stir in the orzo and cook until toasted, about 2-3 minutes. Add the wine to the skillet and de-glaze the pan. Add the 2 cups water and bring to a boil over high heat. Simmer 8-10 minutes until the orzo is al dente. Stir in the milk and parmesan, cook another few minutes until warmed through.

2. Meanwhile, make the shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss together the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and a large pinch of pepper.

3. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the sausage and brown all over, about 5 minutes. Add the peppers and season with salt and pepper. Cook 5 minutes or until the peppers are soft and tender, remove the sausage and peppers from the skillet to a plate.

4. Return the skillet to high heat and add the olive oil. Add the shrimp and sear on both sides until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons butter, the garlic, and 1 tablespoon thyme, toss to coat and cook until the garlic is fragrant and caramelized, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the basil, lemon juice, and reserved sausage and peppers.

5. To serve, spoon the orzo onto plates, top with shrimp and peppers. Enjoy!